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Miguel Cabrera has always been a great player, but perhaps he's taking the first step toward becoming a great leader.

Cabrera was among those who witnessed teammate Al Alburquerquekiss the baseball before retiring Yoenis Cespedes via a groundout in the ninth inning of Sunday's Game 2 between the Tigers and A's. And while he certainly appreciates the reliever's effort, Cabrera wasn't a huge fan of the smooch, which has since gotten the A's all riled up.

"You cannot do that, that's just not right,'' Cabrera told USA TODAY Sports. "This game is about respect. We know he's excited, but you have to respect the game.

"I will talk to him, and tell him that you cannot do that.''

Catcher Alex Avila wasn't as adamant about setting Alburquerque straight, as he's instead willing to chalk it up to Al being Al.

"I've seen it before,'' Avila reportedly said in amusement, "but not with a guy running to first base.

"Nothing surprises me with Al. He's like in his own world sometimes. You're going to see some crazy things on the mound when he's out there.''